דְּבַשׁ (de.vash)

The Hebrew noun debash refers to honey, specifically noting its sticky, gummy texture which likely shaped its name. In the Old Testament, it primarily denotes bee honey, whether harvested from domesticated hives or gathered wild from rocks and trees, as seen when Samson finds a swarm in a lion’s carcass (Judges 14:8-9) or when Jonathan tastes it in the wood of Ephraim (1 Samuel 14:27). The word captures a tangible sweetness that stands in stark contrast to the bitterness of famine or judgment, serving as a symbol of natural abundance.

Debash also describes a thick syrup made from boiled grape must, a product still common in the region today. This dual meaning allows the term to appear in lists of trade goods alongside wine and oil (Ezekiel 27:17) or in descriptions of the Promised Land’s fertility (Exodus 3:8). The pairing of milk and honey becomes a powerful image of divine provision, illustrating a land flowing with rich, unprocessed delights that require no complex preparation to enjoy.

The sources highlight how this simple food carries theological weight, representing both God’s generous blessing and the soul’s delight in His word. Psalm 119:103 compares the commandments to honeycomb, suggesting that divine instruction is not merely a duty but a source of profound joy. Translators generally keep the literal sense of "honey" to preserve this vivid sensory connection between physical nourishment and spiritual satisfaction.